Abuse of Power/Macbeth Flashcards
Macbeth’s behaviour and actions give the
impression that he doesn’t care what anyone thinks of him. He believes he’s above criticism or condemnation because he’s king, and fortune is on his side.
Similarly, Macbeth’s hubris peaks in Act 4, as he believes he is immune to fate and higher powers. Hecate tells us as such when she addresses the Witches. Macbeth has lost sight of his humanity and weaknesses, so that he’s possessed by arrogance, confidence, and pride. His slaughtering of Macduff’s innocent family implies he believes he shouldn’t be limited
by moral or social rules, and exploits his power as king to kill whenever he pleases. The way he immediately resorts to murder suggests he has an exaggerated view of his own importance, because he acts as if his slight discomfort warrants bloodshed
